So cupcakes are kinda a big deal outside of the US. why? Because they are different and are so stupidly cute that even the manliest of men can't overcome the urge to sneak one into the corner. That and the fact that anything remotely american in brazil is considered "que chique!" Brazilians, like many other non-americans, are cookoo for cupcakes. My theory is that they are coveted so simply for the fact that they are actually attractive unlike most Brazilian desserts. Now there i go offending Brazilians again, it's an unfortunate habit of mine, but the fact of the matter is that most Brazilian desserts are ugly. If you knew me, say 4 or so years ago, you would remember my sentiment about Portuguese desserts. ugly. It seems to be an inherited trait from papa portugal. As recorded here on the Salty Cod a few years ago, when i first arrived in Porto, one of my initial thoughts that may or may not have been said aloud was how god-awfully ugly most of the bakeries were. That pretty much sums it up for the pastry scene in Brazil as well. Many Brazilians have argued with me on this, but meh. Stewed strawberries in a simple syrup just don't translate for me, many apologies. Either way, once you have been in a Parisian boulangerie-pâtisserie, everything will seem ugly to you henceforth. This is where cupcakes come in. They are brilliant for children as they offer relatively small portions, and they simply look good, whether or not they actually taste good.
You can find a few cupcake copycats at supermarkets or bakeries around the Sao Paulo, but most look like cookie monster vomit. However, there are a few cupcake "specialists" in the area. One being the delightful to-order cupcake shop Sophie & Theo's Cupcakes in Sao Paulo owned and run by my New Zealand expat friend Jaime. The key to Jaime's cupcakes is the cake to frosting ratio which is right on the money, and she even has a line of gluten free cakes. If you are looking for an authentic cupcake with actual taste in the Sao Paulo region, i recommend getting in touch with her at saopaulocupcakes. and yes, she sells a special cupcake with a hello kitty charm!
Lately i have been shooting quite a few cakes and cupcakes. They are just so deliciously photogenic. And to be honest, i miss sharing photos with you. So here are a few cakes and cupcakes i have been working with lately. just for fun. As hard as i try, i just can't get away from photographing food, especially sweets.
